Anybody want to comment on the Bachmann GE 8-40CW model. Pros and cons. Any tips for improving weaknesses.
I have an N scale Spectrum I just picked up on eBay. I runs really smooth and quite forward and smooth and a little noisey in reverse. I’ve not oiled it. Good low end speed.
I had two of the HO spectrum dash 8s. I sold them when I went DCC. Great DC engines, lots of power and smooth runners. But just not worth the effort when it comes to DCC.
The current HO ones have a NMRA socket inside for DCC. The one I have (don’t ask why or how I have it 
) runs very well. It was used extensively in train shows before I got it.
Spectrum/Bachman diesels have a reputation for being unreliable and for not lasting as long as better quality models like Athearn or Kato. One of the local layouts I operate on had a number of HO Spectrum Dash-8 40C locos, and they are all now out of service due to various motor and truck problems. Unless Bachman has improved the mechanism tremendously, keeping the model running well in the long run will be much more difficult than with better brands. The trucks lacked separate axle bearings, which contributed to premature wear in the plastic truck assemblies. The motors often run roughly, maybe not at first but they can deteriorate later.
Add the overall clunky detail and poor tooling of the shell to the mechanical shortcomings, and the Bachman units aren’t much of a bargain, especially at the price Bachman thinks they’re worth. An Atlas Dash-8 is a much better bet.